It is not uncommon for cats to suffer from constipation. Incorrect hydration, stress or pain are factors that end up triggering digestive transit problems due to a lack of intestinal motility. For this reason, many caregivers may be tempted to resort to the application of an enema that can be purchased without a prescription at any pharmacy. So, they end up using micralax for cats, but is it really good?
In this article on our site we are going to explain the characteristics of the product and the possibility of its use in cats. Read on to find out if you can use micralax in cats.
What is micralax?
Micralax is a enema, also known as an enema, a procedure that consists of introducing a liquid product through of the year. The objective is to obtain a laxative effect Laxatives are all those preparations formulated to provoke the elimination of feces. There are different types, such as osmotics, stimulants, emollients or lubricants. Specifically, micralax is included in the group of so-called osmotic-type laxatives. These are characterized by concentrating the water in the intestine in order to liquefy the feces to facilitate their expulsion.
To achieve this goal micralax uses two components, which are sodium citrate and sodium lauryl sulfoacetateThus, sodium citrate is the active ingredient that would act by retaining fluids in the intestine to increase the amount of water present in the stool. For its part, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate is a humectant, that is, a substance that provides moisture by favoring the migration of water molecules. In addition to this enema, we can detect lauryl sulfoacetate as a component of different cosmetics, such as soaps or shampoos.
Micralax comes in a small 5 ml container with a cannula designed to facilitate its application, as it is designed for rectal use only. It contains a viscous rectal solution and each container corresponds to a single dose.
Micralax is a human medicine product, intended only for use in humans. Therefore, even if we have micralax in our home medicine cabinet or we can buy it at a pharmacy without a prescription, do not administer micralax for cats if it has not been prescribed by the veterinary.
What is micralax used for in cats?
Micralax is used to relieve occasional constipation in people over 12 years of age. Thus, it would serve for mild situations of constipation that cause some discomfort at the gastrointestinal level. Sometimes, we can assess the use of micralax for cats when it gives us the feeling that they are in a situation of constipation similar to what we identify in humans. For example, we see him make efforts to defecate without succeeding, it hurts to do so or, simply, he spends several days without evacuating in the sandbox.
But it's not a good idea that our first option is micralax. First of all, the treatment of constipation in cats follows a protocol that in no case begins with micralax. But it is that, even more importantly, it is essential to discover the cause of constipation. Otherwise, we run the risk of delaying the diagnosis and thus complicating the cat's recovery. Taking these data into account, if our cat does not defecate in a couple of days, the first option is to call the veterinarian. Therefore, micralax is not suitable for cats
Management of Mild Constipation in Cats
As we have pointed out, although it is true that micralax for cats can be part of the treatment chosen by the veterinarian to combat constipation, it is not the first option. If our cat has not defecated throughout the day and does not show any other symptoms, we can simply increase the moist content of its food, as well as other recommendations:
- If he feeds on kibble, it's a good idea give him wet food.
- If he is already consuming it, we can encourage him to drink liquids by offering him some broth without s alt or fat.
- The moving water is a good lure that encourages some specimens to drink.
- If it's hot, an ice cube can work too.
- Turn to a high-fiber diet.
- Give him a dose of m alt or a small spoonful of olive oil are other resources to promote bowel movement and expulsion of stool.
But, if the constipation is recurrent, does not subside or other symptoms appear, you should go to the vet. Waiting can complicate the condition to the point of requiring surgical intervention.
Dosage of micralax for cats
If the veterinarian considers the use of micralax, he will also decide on the most appropriate dosage. Thus, it is not possible to determine the dose of micralax for cats because, we repeat, only a specialist can set it taking into account all the factors mentioned.
Micralax contraindications for cats
Due to its route of administration, poisoning is not very common, unless it is ingested. But yes, like any other drug, it can cause some side effects. Hence, it should only be used with a veterinary prescription. In addition, a bad application could cause lesions in the anal region Micralax interacts with some drugs, and can cause serious complications. Therefore, do not apply micralax to your cat if it has not been prescribed by a veterinarian.